Ollantaytambo Ruins

Ollantaytambo is a historic Inca citadel and modern settlement located 60 miles north of Cuzco, Peru, and is home to a number of magnificent Inca ruins.

The castle was built in the mid-15th century by the Inca emperor Pachacuti to bring nearby tribes under Inca power, although it was also utilized as a shrine. Its dominance was short-lived, however, since Manco Inca retreated to Ollantaytambo after a humiliating loss at the hands of the conquistadors at Sacsaywamán.

Ollantaytambo Ruins, which lay 2,800 meters above sea level atop a high hill, still have the original stepped walls – which doubled as terraces – as well as the remains of a royal chamber, the Temple of the Sun, and a feature known as the "Princess' Baths." Atop the terraces is the ceremonial center.

The ruins are located along the Inca Trail and are a famous tourist destination. The boleto turistico, which includes admission to 16 other local sites, is well worth the investment if you want to stay in the area for any length of time.

Location: Cuzco, Peru